Vehicle safety device equipped with artificial intelligence, sensors, and audio-visual modules

Abstract

A vehicle lighting apparatus that can be used to increase the visibility profile of a vehicle is described. The apparatus includes a base adapted to connect to a vehicle frame or seat or back; a power supply; and an elongated light source supported by the base and coupled to the power supply. The elongated light source is adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon. The apparatus is equipped with various sensors and audio-visual devices that are configured receive input from the surrounding environment and provide audio-visual feedback to the user as well as other drivers and pedestrians. The apparatus may employ AI and machine-learning modules to predict potential events, such as collisions, and warn the user and surrounding drivers and pedestrians.

Description

VEHICLE SAFETY DEVICE EQUIPPED WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, SENSORS, AND AUDIO-VISUAL MODULESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This technology relates generally to a vehicle safety apparatus and, in particular, to a lighting apparatus having Al, sensors, and audio-visual modules that can be used to increase the visibility profile of a vehicle and the safety of the driver.BACKGROUND

[0002] Wheelchairs, motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, e-bikes, and mobility scooters have profiles that are lower to the ground relative to cars and trucks, with whom these vehicles share a road. Accordingly, these vehicles are known as “low profile vehicles.” The result of a low profile is an inability to be recognized by other drivers. Low visibility and an inability to be seen makes low profile vehicles inherently less safe than the taller vehicles the low profile vehicles negotiate with every day in traffic. Because other drivers are unable to see and / or quickly recognize low profile vehicles while driving, these vehicles are subject to a safety disadvantage that frequently results in accidents. Drivers of cars and trucks are often unable to see low profile vehicles until it is too late to avoid a collision. Accidents between low profile vehicles and higher profile cars and trucks can be especially dangerous due to the size differential of the vehicles.

[0003] Vehicle safety lights are currently available for vehicles such as motorcycles and bicycles. However, the safety lights for low profile vehicles have a small silhouette and are generally attached to the existing vehicle frame or seat and do not rise above the frame or seat or back. For example, small light emitting diode (LED) bicycle safety lights are designed to be attached to the frame or under the seat and do not rise above the seat or back of the vehicle. Because bicycles share the road with vehicles with much larger profiles (i.e., riders seated much higher), a safety light positioned in this location serves a limited purpose. Visibility of low profile vehicles is limited because existing safety lights are configured to stay within the profile of the vehicle. Therefore, low profile vehicles are still subject to frequent, dangerous accidents despite the availability of safety lights.

[0004] Whip lights and light poles are sometimes used on recumbent bicycles and all-terrain vehicles (“ATVs”). Because of the whip lights’ and the light poles’ rigid nature, these devices cannot be used on vehicles that require a rider to mount the frame (i.e., bicycle, motorcycle).

[0005] Commercially available vehicle safety lights generally require a user to select “modes,” such as a static light or blinking light, which limits their ability to adjust to conditions. Therefore, there is need of improved vehicle safety lights with improved safety by responding to environmental signals.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1A is a perspective views of a vehicle safety apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0007] FIG. IB is a perspective view of the vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

[0008] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle frame according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle frame according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3C is a side view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the improved visibility profile due to the presence of a vehicle safety apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a side view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7C is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to the embodiment of FIG. 7B attached to a seat.

[0019] FIG. 7D is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus according to another embodiment of the disclosure in its detached configuration.

[0020] FIG. 7E is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a charge cord according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a multi-rotational display according to one embodiments of the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus according to another embodiment of the disclosure attached to a seat.

[0023] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus according to another embodiments of the disclosure attached to a seat.

[0024] The figures depict various embodiments of the present technology for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that various embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the technology described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present technology includes an apparatus for vehicle safety that include an elongated light adapted to extend above the vehicle frame and seat and back of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the elongated light may be configured to project light onto the back of the vehicle or the back of the user of the vehicle. In some aspects, the elongated light may be configured to show an indication, such as indicating that there is an approaching vehicle or that the batteries are low.

[0026] In some embodiments, the apparatus also includes a sensor configured to monitor environmental data, a processor to output a signal based on the environmental data, and a feedbackdevice configured to provide an indication based on the signal. For example, the present technology includes a live camera, where a sensor records a live video and the feedback device is a display that a user of the vehicle can view.

[0027] In some embodiments, the present technology generates incident data based on the environmental data. For example, the processor may be configured to generate incident data using machine learning or artificial intelligence (Al). The technology may also use machine learning or artificial intelligence to predict an incident.

[0028] As used herein a “user” or “operator” of the “vehicle” refers to a user of the apparatus and / or the vehicle of the present technology. A “motorist” “approaching vehicle” or a “pedestrian” refers to individuals in the environment near the user of the vehicle.

[0029] Various aspects of the technology will now be described. The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding and enabling description of these examples. One skilled in the art will understand, however, that the technology may be practiced without many of these details. Additionally, some well-known structures or functions may not be shown or described in detail, so as to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant description. Although the diagrams depict components as functionally separate, such depiction is merely for illustrative purposes. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the components portrayed in these figures may be combined or divided into separate components.

[0030] The terminology used in the description presented below is intended to be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific examples of the technology. The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed above, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example using capitalization, italics and / or quotation marks. The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated that same element can be described in more than one way.

[0031] Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, nor is any special significance to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.

[0032] Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments.Apparatus for Vehicle SafetyElongated Light Source

[0033] FIG. 1A is a perspective views of a vehicle safety apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. IB is a perspective view of the vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The vehicle safety apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1A comprises a base 104, a power supply 108, and an elongated light source 102 supported by the base 104 and coupled, directly or indirectly, to the power supply 108. FIG. IB illustrates the vehicle safety apparatus 100 coupled, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle frame 106 according to one of the preferred embodiments. Illustrated vehicle frame 106 is a bicycle. However, the vehicle frame 106 may be, for example, a bicycle, a wheelchair, a recumbent bicycle, a motorcycle, a moped, a scooter, or a trike, although the vehicle safety apparatus of the present preferred embodiment may be adapted for use with any other suitable vehicle frame. In general, the vehicle frame can be adapted for riding. The base 104 is adapted to connect to the vehicle frame 106. In preferred embodiments, the base 104 is adapted such that the vehicle safety apparatus 100 is positioned at the rear of the vehicle. The base 104 may also be adapted such that the vehicle safety apparatus 100 is positionedto one or more sides, in front of, or above the vehicle. In one preferred embodiment, the base 104 is configured to be detachably connectable to the vehicle frame 106. The detachably connectable mechanism allows a rider to easily store and quickly reconfigure the vehicle safety apparatus 100 in a modular fashion. The base 104 can be made of metal, carbon fiber, (poly)resin, any other rugged, weather-resistant material, or any combination thereof.

[0034] The base 104 illustrates a tightening knob for securing onto the vehicle frame 106. However, other mechanisms of securing the elongated light source 102 onto the vehicle frame 106 are also contemplated by this disclosure.

[0035] An elongated light source 102 is supported by the base 104 and contains one or more LEDs, although one skilled in the art would recognize that a number of light source configurations (e.g., columnar, circular, zigzag) are available that could perform properly under the described conditions. The LEDs, an alternative light source (e.g., fluorescent emitter, incandescent emitter, phosphorescent emitter), or a combination thereof, may be housed in a translucent (e.g., semitransparent) or transparent polymeric or plastic column. The housing may have patterns with different degrees of transparency. One skilled in the art would appreciate that many materials allow light to pass through and may be considered appropriate substitutes (e.g., glass). For example, the elongated light source 102 may comprise high powered LEDs housed within a red translucent plastic column. Alternatively, the high powered LEDs can be red. The column of the elongated light source 102 may take various forms, including, but not limited to, a circular column, semi-circular column, rectilinear column, octahedral column, or curved half-parabola column. The light emitters (e.g., LEDs, fluorescent emitter, phosphorescent emitter) may be arranged down the entirety of the column or any portion thereof. Diameter of the elongated light source 102 can vary from less than an inch to several inches. The LEDs may be arranged in columns, rows, a zigzag pattern, various curvilinear, rectilinear or random patterns, or any combination thereof. Although the elongated light source 102 may vary in height from one inch to over 6 feet tall, the height is preferably substantially near the length of an average human thigh. The vehicle safety apparatus 100 is designed such that the elongated light source 102 rises above the vehicle frame 106 to enhance the visibility of the vehicle in traffic or around pedestrians. The elongated light source 102 may be adapted to extend from at or below the top of the vehicle frame 106.

[0036] The elongated light source 102 may be an active light source or a passive light source. For example, the elongated light source may comprise LEDs housed in a translucent plastic column, thereby serving as an active light source. Alternatively, the elongated light source may comprise a reflective material that redirects light from other sources (e.g., headlights from a second vehicle), thereby serving as a passive light source.

[0037] The elongated light source 102 is coupled, directly or indirectly, to a power supply 108, examples of which include, but are not limited to, a battery, a dynamo, a solar cell, some other regenerative power source, or any combination thereof. For example, the power supply may be a JouleTM 3 Dynamo Hub or a combination of rechargeable lithium ion or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. The power supply 108, for example, may be housed within the column of the elongated light source 102. The vehicle safety apparatus 100 may also utilize the vehicle’s existing electrical power system (e.g., wheelchair). In one embodiment, the vehicle safety apparatus 100 may utilize a dynamo to provide a primary source of power and one or more rechargeable batteries that continue to power the elongated light source 102 when the vehicle is not moving. The rechargeable batteries may also be adapted to be recharged via a universal serial bus (“USB”) connection to a laptop, desktop computer, tablet, or power outlet converter. In some embodiments, the vehicle is a powered vehicle, such as a motorcycle, an electric bicycle, electric scooter, or another vehicle propelled by an onboard battery. In some aspects the battery of the apparatus is integrated into the powered vehicle. In some aspects, the battery of the apparatus is the battery that propels the vehicle. For example, the battery that propels the powered vehicle, such as an electric bicycle, may also be coupled to the elongated light source.

[0038] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 200A attached to a vehicle frame 206A according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 200B attached to a vehicle frame 206B according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The vehicle safety apparatus 200A and the vehicle safety apparatus 200B may collectively be referred to as “the vehicle safety apparatus 200,” and the vehicle frame 206A and the vehicle frame 206B may collectively be referenced as the vehicle frame 206, which is adapted for a rider. The vehicle safety apparatus 200, for example, can be the vehicle safety apparatus 100 of FIG. 1A. The vehicle safety apparatus 200, preferably, is configured to be flexible. The flexible mechanism may be implemented in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, the embodimentsof FIG. 2A and 2B. In one embodiment, the elongated light source 202A may be entirely inflexible. For example, the elongated light source 202A may be adapted to pivot from the base 204, as shown in FIG. 2A, such that the entirety of the elongated light source 202A is displaced when sufficient force is applied. Examples of a pivot mechanism 210 include, but are not limited to, a central pivot joint, a universal joint, and bellows made from metal and / or plastic.

[0039] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2B, the elongated light source 202B may be constructed of a segmented rigid material linked by flexible material. The flexible material may be selected to warp under a human thigh moving over the elongated light source 202B and unwarp upon removal of the human thigh without breaking the elongated light source 202B.

[0040] Illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are examples of making the vehicle safety apparatus 200 flexible enough for a rider to mount over the vehicle safety apparatus 200. Other embodiments of the vehicle safety apparatus 200 are also contemplated in this disclosure in any combination of the elongated light source 202 being a rigid pole, a semi-flexible pole, or a flexible pole and the base 204 being a flexible, pivoting, or rigid.

[0041] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 300A attached to a vehicle according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The vehicle safety apparatus 300 A, for example, can be the vehicle safety apparatus 100 of FIG. 1A. The vehicle safety apparatus 300A is configured to mount to a vehicle frame 306A. The illustrated vehicle frame 306A is a bicycle frame; however, other possible vehicles include, but are not limited to, a wheelchair, a recumbent bicycle, or a trike. The vehicle safety apparatus 300A comprises a base 304 adapted to connect to a vehicle frame 306A, a power supply 308, and an elongated light source 302A supported by the base 304 and coupled, directly or indirectly, to the power supply 308. The base 304 is adapted to connect to a particular vehicle frame 306 A, for example, a bicycle. The base 304 may be detachably connectable or permanently mountable to the vehicle frame 306A.

[0042] In one embodiment, the elongated light source 302A is adapted to extend above the vehicle frame 306A with respect to a surface 310 the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon. This extension raises the vehicle’s visibility profde, improves the rider’s visibility and safety, and reduces the incidence of collisions with other vehicles. The elongated light source 302A can be configured to provide light within the profile of the vehicle (i.e., inside the frame 306A). In another embodiment, the elongated light source 302A is adapted to provide illumination in 180 degrees or greater; however,the elongated light source 302A may, for example, be adapted to provide illumination in any range between 180 and 360 degrees. The elongated light source 302A may be adapted to provide a substantially uniform illumination, an irregular illumination pattern, or any combination thereof. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 3 A, the elongated light source 302 A is configured to move upon pressure from a human body and spring back to an original upright position with respect to the surface 310 the vehicle frame 306A is to traverse thereon.

[0043] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In various embodiments, the elongated light source 302B may be a flexible curved column. In this embodiment, the elongated light source 302B can be configured to move upon pressure from a human body and spring back to an original upright position with respect to the surface 310 the vehicle frame 306B is to traverse thereon. Alternatively, the elongated light source 302B can be constructed of a segmented rigid material linked by flexible material. The flexible material may be selected to warp under a human thigh moving over the elongated light source 302B and unwarp upon removal of the human thigh without breaking the elongated light source 302B.

[0044] FIG. 3C is a side view of a vehicle safety apparatus attached to a vehicle according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The illustrated vehicle frame 306C is a wheelchair; however, other possible vehicles include, but are not limited to, a bicycle, a recumbent bicycle, or a trike. In one embodiment, the elongated light source 302C is adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface 310 the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon. In various embodiments, the elongated light source may be configured in a “Y” shape, wherein the arms of the “Y” comprise the elongated light source 302C. The elongated light source 302C of FIG. 3C is adapted to provide illumination in 180 degrees or greater; however, the elongated light source 302C may, for example, be adapted to provide illumination in any range between 180 and 360 degrees. The elongated light source 302C may be adapted to provide a substantially uniform illumination, an irregular illumination pattern, or any combination thereof. Similarly, the elongated light source 302C may also be adapted such that the arms of the “Y” can be intensified together, in programmed patterns, or in random patterns. In various embodiments, the elongated light source 302C may be configured to illuminate the entire stem of the “Y.” Alternatively, the elongated light source 302C may be configured to illuminate only a portion of the stem or may be placed at the top of the vehicle safety apparatus 300C.10045] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the improved visibility profile due to the presence of a vehicle safety apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure. In this embodiment, the elongated light source 402 is positioned to provide illumination towards a rider seat of the vehicle such that reflected rays from a rider are adapted to create a larger illumination field 410. The elongated light source 402 may provide uniform illumination or the elongated light source 402 may provide an irregular illumination pattern such that the reflected rays provide a softer, more natural illumination field 410. A larger illumination field 410 can raise the vehicle’s visibility profile, thereby improving visibility of the vehicle and reducing the incidence of collisions with other vehicles. Light source intensity may be chosen and / or modified in order to increase visibility at large distances. The base 404 may be adapted to allow adjustment of the vehicle safety apparatus 400 in any direction (e.g., tilt). The vehicle safety apparatus 400 may also be adapted to allow attachment of off-the-shelf safety lights or a specially-designed light to the top and / or side of the apparatus.

[0046] In some embodiments, the vehicle safety apparatus 400 may be controlled by the rider via a remote control. The remote control allows the rider to turn the vehicle safety apparatus on / off and cycle through a variety of modes, including, but not limited to, constant on, constant rate of blinking, random blinking, and off for all or some of the light diodes. For example, the elongated light source may have modes where the bottom light diodes, middle light diodes, and / or top light diodes may be constantly on, blinking, or off. The mode of the elongated light source may be controllable from any remote device including an app on a smart phone, smart watch. The elongated light source 402 may also comprise an extra row or column of lights that intensify when the rider utilizes the brakes. The elongated light source 402 may also be adapted such that all of the lights can be intensified together, in programmed patterns, or in random patterns. In some embodiments, the vehicle safety apparatus 400 may comprise two or more elongated light sources 402 mounted adjacently or in other symmetrical or non-symmetrical relationships. If two or more vehicle safety apparatuses 400 are coupled, directly or indirectly, together, the elongated light sources 402 may be configured to flash or illuminate any pattern in unison.

[0047] In various embodiments, the vehicle safety apparatus 400 may be configured to sync to a vehicle’s brake and / or turn lights. Possible vehicles include, but are not limited to, a motorcycle, a bicycle, or a moped. For example, the elongated light source 402 may intensify when a rider is braking or activate side portions of the elongated light source 402 to indicate turn direction. The-I Q-vehicle safety apparatus 400 may be synced, wired or wirelessly, to additional safety lights positioned elsewhere on the vehicle frame 406 and / or rider (e.g., back of helmet). The elongated light source 402 may also be adapted to provide different color signals for different functions. For example, red LEDs may indicate braking, while yellow LEDs may indicate turn direction.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates a vehicle safety apparatus 500 and vehicle frame 506 according to one of the preferred embodiments. The vehicle safety apparatus 500, for example, can be the vehicle safety apparatus 100 of FIG. 1A. The illustrated vehicle frame 506 is a bicycle frame; however, other possible vehicles include, but are not limited to, a bicycle, a wheelchair, a recumbent bicycle, a motorcycle, a moped, a scooter, or a trike. In this embodiment, the elongated light source 502 includes a telescoping mechanism such that the elongated light source 502 is configured to extend above the vehicle frame 506 when fully protracted. One skilled in the art would appreciate that the elongated light source 502 may be configured to retract into different positions, including into the base 504.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 600A attached to a vehicle according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The vehicle safety apparatus 600 A, for example, can be the vehicle safety apparatus 100 of FIG. 1A. The vehicle safety apparatus 600A is configured to mount to a vehicle frame 606A. The illustrated vehicle frame 606A is a bicycle frame; however, other possible vehicles include, but are not limited to, a wheelchair, a recumbent bicycle, or a trike. The vehicle safety apparatus 600A comprises a base 604 adapted to connect to a vehicle frame 606A, a power supply 608, and an elongated light source 602A supported by the base 604 and coupled, directly or indirectly, to the power supply 608. The base 604 is adapted to connect to a particular vehicle frame 606A, for example, a bicycle. The base 604 may be detachably connectable or permanently mountable to the vehicle frame 606A. The elongated light source 602A is adapted to project light onto the back of the user.

[0050] In some embodiments, the elongated light source may be configured to project light onto the back of a vehicle or a user of a vehicle. For example, the light may project onto the back of a bicycle user or the seat back of a wheelchair. In some embodiments, the light may be configured to project an indication, such as a turning signal or braking signal. The light may be configured to be constantly on, constantly blinking, randomly blinking, or off.

[0051] In some embodiments, the elongated light source may include both a backwards elongated light source adapted to illuminate the road or other objects behind the vehicle and a forward elongated light source that is adapted to illuminate the rider’s body. In some embodiments, the forward elongated light source is adapted to be turned on and off independent of the backwards elongated light. The forward elongated light source may be adapted to be constantly on, constantly blinking, randomly blinking, or off. The forward elongated light source may project an image, light, or video onto the back of the vehicle user. The forward elongated light source may project a red light to indicate that the vehicle is breaking. The forward elongated light source may projects a blinking light to indicate that the vehicle is turning.

[0052] The elongated light may be further configured to include a speaker. The speaker may be configured to emit a noise that can be heard be the user or the vehicle, drivers of other vehicles, and / or nearby pedestrians.

[0053] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 700A configured to be attached to a vehicle frame according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 700B configured to be attached to a vehicle frame according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 7C is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 700C attached to a seat of a vehicle frame 706 according to another embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 7D is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 700D in its detected configuration. FIG. 7E is a perspective view of a vehicle safety apparatus 700E connected to a charging element. The vehicle safety apparatus 700A, 700B, 700C, 700D, and 700E may collectively be referred to as “the vehicle safety apparatus 700.” The vehicle safety apparatus 700, for example, can be the vehicle safety apparatus 100 of FIG. 1A.

[0054] The vehicle safety apparatus 700, may be configured to be flexible. As shown in FIG. 7A, the vehicle safety apparatus 700A may be configured to be flexible in multiple directions or omnidirectional to facilitate mounting and / or dismounting the vehicle. The flexible mechanism may be implemented in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, the embodiments of FIG. 7A, 7B, and 7C. In one embodiment, the elongated light source 702A may comprise a spring pivot 710, such that the entirety of the elongated light source 702A is displaced when sufficient force is applied. Examples of a pivot mechanism 710 include, but are not limited to, a central pivot joint, a universal joint, and bellows made from metal and / or plastic.

[0055] As shown in, for example FIG. 7B, the elongated light source 702B of the vehicle safety apparatus 700 may include a light column 712 configured to project light backwards in relation to the vehicle. For example, the light column 712 may be configured to project light towards road vehicles following behind a bicycle. The light column 712 may be configured to be partially or wholly dimmable. The light column 712 may be configured to have any of the features of the light sources of the present technology. For example, the light column 712 may have any of the features elongated light sources 402.

[0056] The elongated light source 702B of the vehicle safety apparatus 700 may also include a back light 714, which is configured to project on the back of the vehicle or user of the vehicle. In some aspects, the elongated light source 702B may include a plurality of back lights 714. For example, as shown in FIGs. 7B and 7C, the elongated light source 702B may include four back lights that are disposed along the vertical length of the elongated light source. The plurality of back lights 714 may be configured to illuminate synchronously or asynchronously. For example, the plurality of back lights may blink simultaneously or in an alternating pattern. In some aspects, one or more of the plurality of back lights turns off to indicate that the battery of the vehicle safety apparatus 700 is low.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 7D, the vehicle safety apparatus 700 may also have a quick release element 716 configured to detach the elongated light source from the vehicle. The quick release element 716 may be any quick release element known in the art to quickly detach an obj ect by pressing a button, switch or other actuator. The quick release element may be used without a tool, such as a screwdriver or wrench, and without manual labor, such as manually screwing or tightening an object. The base of the elongated light source may be releasably connected to the frame of the vehicle, for example via a quick release element. The base may also be releasably connected to a bracket 704, which is fixedly connected to the frame of the vehicle. The bracket 704 may be fixedly connected to the vehicle using, for example bolts, screws, or clamps, such that tools are needed to remove the bracket from the vehicle. As shown in FIGs. 9A and 9B, a bracket 904A / 904B may be attached to a frame 906A / 906B by a fixed connection 924A / 924B. For example, the fixed connection 924A may include a screw-type fastener that can be tightened manually by screwing the fastener. The fixed connection, for example 924B, may also be tightened using an Allen wrench or other tool In some embodiments, the bracket is releasably connected to the vehicle. In aspects, the bracket is releasably connected to the vehicle and the elongated light source is releasably attached to the bracket.

[0058] The elongated light source may releasably attach to the vehicle frame. In some embodiments, the elongated light source may directly and releasably attach to the vehicle frame, wherein the elongated light source directly attaches and detaches from the vehicle frame without fixedly attaching a base to the vehicle frame. In some embodiments, the elongated light source releasably attaches to the vehicle frame indirectly through a base that fixedly attaches to the vehicle frame while the elongated light source releasably attaches to the base. In some embodiments, the elongated light source is releasably attached to a seat of a bicycle. In some aspects, the elongated light source is releasably attached to the carriage of the bicycle seat. In some aspects, the elongated light source is releasably attached to a seat post. The seat post may be the substantially vertical post that connects the seat to the rest of the frame of a bicycle. In some aspects, the elongated light source is releasably attached to a wheel fender. In some aspects, the elongated light source is releasably attached to a seat stay or chain stay of the vehicle. In some aspects, the elongated light source is releasably attached from a support rack attached to the vehicle frame. For example, the vehicle may be a bicycle and the support rack may be a rack attached above the rear wheel. The support rack may be a cargo support rack. In some aspects, the elongated light source extends above the vehicle frame behind the vehicle. In some aspects, the elongated light source extends above the vehicle frame from a side of the vehicle. In some aspects, the elongated light source is fixedly attached to a vehicle frame, for example a vehicle seat, a carriage of a bicycle seat, a seat post, wheel fender, seat stay, chain stay, or support rack.

[0059] In some embodiments, the elongated light source may have an attachment element configured to attach the elongated light source to an object such as a user’s clothing, belt, shoulder strap, backpack, purse, or bag, for example. The attachment element may be a loop, clip, or other mechanism for releasably attaching the elongated light source.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 7E, the vehicle safety apparatus 700 may also comprise a battery that is rechargeable. The rechargeable battery may be charged using a charging port 718 on the vehicle safety apparatus 700E. The charging port 718, may be configured to connect to a charging cord 720 to charge the rechargeable battery. The elongated light source may be configured to reduce the number of light diodes that are on when the battery is low. For example, the elongated light source may turn off the bottom diode, the bottom two diodes, the bottom three diodes, or the bottom four diodes when the battery power falls below a battery threshold. In some aspects, after the number ofdiodes is reduced, the number of light diodes that are on may be reduced further as the battery continues to decrease. For example, the bottom diode may turn off when the battery falls below a first battery threshold; the bottom two diodes may turn off when the battery falls below a second battery threshold; the bottom three diodes may turn off when the battery falls below a third battery threshold; and / or the bottom four diodes may turn off when the battery falls below a fourth battery threshold. Alternatively, the elongated light source may turn off a fraction of the lights when the battery falls below a battery threshold. The fraction of the lights may include 1 / 2 the light diodes; 1 / 3 or 2 / 3 of the light diodes; 1 / 4, 2 / 4, or 3 / 4 of the light diodes; 1 / 5, 2 / 5, 3 / 5, or 4 / 5 of the light diodes; or 1 / 6, 2 / 6, 3 / 6, 4 / 6, or 5 / 6 of the light diodes. For example, the 1 / 5 of the light diodes may turn off after the battery falls below a first threshold, 2 / 5 of the light diodes may turn off after the battery falls below a second battery threshold, 3 / 5 of the light diodes may turn off after the battery falls below a third battery threshold, and 4 / 5 of the light diodes may turn off after the battery falls below a fourth battery threshold. The fraction of the lights may be the bottom fraction (e.g. the bottom 1 / 5), top fraction (e.g. the top 1 / 5), a middle fraction (e.g. a 1 / 5 between the top and the bottom), or a fraction made of nonsequential light diodes (e.g. 1 / 5 of the diodes made of alternating light diodes). The elongated light source may also be configured to reduce the brightness of a light electrode when the battery is below a battery threshold. The battery threshold, first battery threshold, second battery threshold, third battery threshold, or fourth battery threshold may be 20% battery, 15% battery, 10% battery, 5% battery, 4% battery, 3% battery, 2% battery, and / or 1% battery.

[0061] In some embodiments, the elongated light source is configured to transmit, by a processor, a low battery signal that the elongated light source has a battery power below a battery threshold. The low battery signal may be an audiovisual signal such as a warning light, warning light pattern, horn, or bell. The low battery signal may be emitted or projected from the elongated light source or from a remote device, such as a smartwatch, wearable, or smart phone.Article

[0062] In some embodiments, the vehicle safety apparatus comprises an article adapted to be worn or carried by a user operating a vehicle. The article may be, for example, a backpack or shirt. The article may also be a stand-alone article that can be mounted onto the user, for example over the user’s shoulder or attached around the user’s waste using a strap or belt.

[0063] The article may include a display integrated into the article. The display may be a flexible display. In some embodiments, the flexible display is rollable or foldable. The display may include electronic ink, flexible electronic paper, organic liquid crystal displays (OLCDs), or organic light-emitting diodes (OLED). The display may comprise one or more light diodes having a variety of modes, for example, constant on, constant rate of blinking, random blinking, and off for all or some of the light diodes.

[0064] The article and flexible display may include any other features described in the present application. For example, the article may include features of the elongated light source. The article may include a power supply wherein a flexible display integrated into the article is coupled to the power supply. In some aspects, the article may be controlled by a remote. In some aspects, the display is configured to sync to a vehicle’s brake an / or turn lights. The display may include a speaker.

[0065] The article may further comprise a sensor configured to monitor a characteristic of an environment of the vehicle and produce environmental data that includes values representative of the characteristic in temporal order; a processor configured to receive the environmental data and output a signal based on an analysis of the environmental data; and a feedback device configured to provide an indication based on the signal. The article may generate indications and use Machine Learning, Al, and other predictive models consistent with the present technology. The article may connect to or communicate with an elongated light source of the present technology.Generating Indications

[0066] The apparatus of the present technology can be configured to generate an indication based on a characteristic of an environment. As such, in embodiments, the apparatus comprises abase adapted to connect to a frame of a vehicle; a power supply; an elongated light source supported by the base and coupled to the power supply, wherein the elongated light source is adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon; a sensor configured to monitor a characteristic of an environment of the vehicle and produce environmental data that includes values representative of the characteristic in temporal order; a processor configured to receive the environmental data and output a signal based on an analysis of the environmental data; and a feedback device configured to provide an indication based on the signal.

[0067] The sensor may be any sensor configured to measure or monitor a characteristic of an environment of the vehicle (“environmental data”). As used herein, an “environment” of the vehicle includes the surrounding area of the vehicle and the objects in the environment, such as the roads, cars, sidewalks, obstacles and other private or public areas near the vehicle. A characteristic of the environment may include any measurable feature of the environment. In some aspects, the sensor may detect light or images of the environment. For example, the sensor may be a camera, a light sensor, proximity sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), proximity sensor, radar, or light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor. In some aspects, the sensor is configured to detect sound using, for example, a microphone. In some aspects, the sensor is configured to detect movement of the vehicle, for example, using an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or an impact sensor. In some aspects, the sensor is configured to detect the location of the vehicle using, for example, a global positioning system (GPS) sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor can detect weather conditions using, for example, humidity sensors, air pressure sensors, wind sensors, or temperature sensors.

[0068] The sensor may be configured to convert the characteristic of the environment into environmental data, which includes numbers or other data that represent the characteristic. In some aspects, the environmental data includes values representative of the characteristic in temporal order.

[0069] The apparatus of the present technology may include a processor configured to receive input data, for example environmental data. The processor may perform operations on the input data, including arithmetic, logic, and control functions. The processor may also be configured to output data or instructions to a feedback device. For example, the processor may output instructions to illuminate an elongated light source, or do export a live recording of an incident to storage device. In aspects, a processor configured to receive the environmental data and output a signal based on an analysis of the environmental data.

[0070] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a feedback device. The feedback device may be a device configured to provide an indication based on a signal that it receives. In some aspects, the feedback device receives a signal from the processor. The feedback device may be any device configured to provide a visual or auditory indication. In some aspects, the feedback device may include a storage device that stores the signal. In some aspects, the indication may be an audio signal, a visual signal, a synchronized audio / visual signal, or alternating audio / visual signal emitted from thefeedback device. For example, the indication may be an audio signal from a speaker and a visual signal from the elongated light source.

[0071] In some embodiments, an indication can be a change in lighting of the elongated light source. For example, the indication can be an increase in brightness of the elongated light source. The indication can also be an increase in a blinking rate of the elongated light source. In some aspects, the indication is a changing in a light pattern of the elongated light device, such as turning on or off some of the lights from the elongated light source. The indication may also include projecting light from the elongated light source on the back of the user of the vehicle. The indication may also include rapidly changing through modes of the elongated light source.

[0072] For example, the feedback device may be an audio output mechanism, such as a speaker, the feedback device is an audio output mechanism. The feedback device may be a visual display configured to display am image or live or pre-recorded recording. The feedback device may be a light, such as an elongated light source.

[0073] In aspects, the feedback device is implemented into a computing device to which the apparatus is communicate connected. For example, the computing device may be a mobile phone or a wearable device, such as watch, a smartwatch or helmet.

[0074] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a backup camera. For example, the apparatus may include a sensor comprises a rear-facing camera and a feedback device comprising a display, where the rear-facing camera records a live video and the display provides the live video to a user of the vehicle. The rear-facing camera may be mounted to the rear end of the vehicle. The rearfacing camera may also be implemented into a device, such as an elongated light source of the present technology. The display may also be implemented into a wearable device. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the display may be implemented into a multi -rotation display 800 that is configured to rotate and / or pivot the display in multiple directions to allow a user to see the display. The multi-rotation display 800 may be configured to attach to the wrist of the user.

[0075] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to generate incident data based on the environmental data, the incident data being data associated with an incident. As used herein, an incident may include any event occurring near the vehicle that may be a risk to the safety of the user of the vehicle. For example an incident may include a collision, an erratic vehicle, an approachingvehicle, or an obstacle. In some aspects, an incident is a vehicle within a predetermined distance of the vehicle, for example within 100 feet of the vehicle. In some aspects, the obstacle may include road debris, a road obstruction, a pothole, or an open car door. As such incident data may include data about the possibility or risk of an incident, the presence of an obstacle or another hazard, or the occurrence of an incident.

[0076] In some embodiments, the apparatus may be configured to report an incident. For example, the apparatus may include a feedback device that comprises a mobile device; and the indication may comprise sending a message to an emergency contact, calling an emergency contact, calling an emergency responder, saving an incident video, sending the incident video, sending a live recording, or sending a split screen of A) the live video directly from the light column's onboard camera and B) a replay loop of the incident video.

[0077] The apparatus may also include a communication module configured to retrieve information, such as an emergency contact phone number, from a remote storage device. In some aspects, the information comprises emergency contact information or emergency responder information. The communication module may also be configured to send information, such as an incident video, to a remote storage device.Machine Learning, AL and other predictive models

[0078] In some embodiments, the present technology includes an apparatus that incorporates machine learning, Al, and other technologies to make predictions about the surrounding environment and provide indications to the user of the vehicle and / or other drivers and pedestrians. The onboard Al gathers may data on how motorists behave when around the apparatus on the road, for example via a camera and / or proximity sensors. The data collected by the sensors of the apparatus may be used to dynamically optimize and update the light patterns and light intensity of the elongated light source based on what it learns about the environment. For example, the apparatus may use machine learning to “learn” that certain combinations of light patterns and light intensity result in fewer near accidents, and may be optimized to employ these light patters and light intensities at the appropriate time to avoid a near accident. Specifically, training data that is representative of environmental data and incident data collected by the device as well as publicly available traffic statistics, may be provided to a machine learning algorithm, and the machine learning algorithm may produce, as output, a machine learning model (or simply “model”) that upon being applied to new data, can predict anoutput based on relationships learned through analysis of the training data. The model may be produced through supervised, unsupervised, or semi-supervised learning. In another example, the apparatus may learn which combination of light patterns and intensities result in greater clearance distance given by motorists to the vehicle and / or in greater motorist speed reductions in approaching and passing the vehicle, and employ these light patterns and intensities when a motorist is within a certain proximity.

[0079] In some embodiments, the processor applies a machine learning module. The processor may generate incident data based on the environmental data by applying the machine learning model. In some aspects, the apparatus is configured to store the incident data. In some aspects, the processor may generate incident data based on incident data and / or environmental data from a remote storage device. The machine learning model may be a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a deep Q-network (DQN), a generative adversarial network (GAN), a support vector machine (SVM), a Bayesian network, and / or a long short-term memory (LSTM). In some aspects, the machine learning model is a classification model or an object detection model. In some aspects, the feedback device provides the indication based on the incident data generated by the machine learning model.

[0080] In some aspects, the processor applies the machine learning module to determine an optimized light pattern or an optimized light intensity from the incident data and the environmental data. An optimized light pattern or an optimized light intensity may be the light pattern or light intensity that increases the safety of the user of the vehicle. Increased safety can include reducing the speed of a motorist, reducing erratic driving of a motorist, reducing unsafe jaywalking of pedestrians, and reducing dangerous incidents.

[0081] Speakers or horns can be used to alert a motorist or pedestrian that is near the vehicle. In some embodiments, the machine learning and Al tools can be used to determine an optimized speaker or horn sound, for example an optimized speaker or horn sound pattern or an optimized speaker or horn sound volume. The optimized speaker horn sound pattern and optimized speaker or sound volume may be a sound pattern or sound volume that increases the safety of the user of the vehicle.

[0082] In some aspects, the machine learning and Al tools can be used to determine an optimized combination of a light pattern / light intensity and horn or speaker pattem / volume. Forexample by generating synchronized or asynchronized light pattem / light intensity or speaker pattern / volume.

[0083] As such, the processor may apply machine learning and Al tools to determine optimized data, which may include optimized light patterns, optimized light intensities, optimized speaker or horn patterns, optimized horn volumes, and combinations thereof. The optimized data, incident data, and / or environmental data may be stored at a remote storage device. In some aspects, a processor is configured to receive the optimized data, incident data, and / or environmental data from the remote device and further optimize the optimized data, incident data, and / or environmental data to further increase the safety of the user of the vehicle. The optimization data and ongoing further optimization of the optimization data of the present technology may be uploaded to a remote storage device by one apparatus and / or distributed to any other apparatus of the present technology. As such any apparatus of the present technology can “learn” from all other apparatuses of the present technology.

[0084] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to detect an approaching vehicle based on the incident data; and generate a collision score based on (i) a path and a velocity of the vehicle, (ii) a path and a velocity of the approaching vehicle, and / or (iii) a current weather state as determined from weather information; and in response to a determination that the collision score exceeds a threshold, cause the feedback device to provide an indication. The processor may apply a machine learning model to generate the collision score. The path and velocity of the vehicle may be determined from one or more sensors of the apparatus, for example a speedometer, accelerometer, GPS device, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), proximity sensor, radar, and / or LiDAR sensor. The path and velocity of an approaching vehicle may also be determined from or more sensors of the apparatus, for example a camera, radar, or LiDAR sensor. In some aspects, the weather information is generated by the sensor or is retrieved from a remote storage device. The remote storage device may be a mobile phone. The remote storage device may alternatively be a “cloud” storage device. The threshold may be a predetermined threshold that is optimized to maximize safety of the user of the vehicle. In some aspects, the processor applies a machine learning module to determine the threshold value based on optimized data, incident data, and environmental data.

[0085] The present technology also includes a method of warning an operator of a vehicle of a potential collision using an apparatus of the present technology. The method may comprise recording, by the sensor, environmental data; detecting, by the processor, an approaching vehicle based on theenvironmental data; measuring, by the processor a path of the approaching vehicle, a velocity of the vehicle, or weather information; calculating, by the processor a possible collision score; and if the possible collision score exceeds a possible collision score threshold; delivering, by a feedback device an indication. The indication may warn the user of the vehicle, a motorist, and / or a pedestrian.

[0086] In some embodiments, the method of warning an operator of a vehicle of a potential collision using an apparatus that is connected to the vehicle comprises: recording, by a sensor included in the apparatus, environmental data; detecting, by a processor included in the apparatus, an approaching vehicle based on the environmental data; measuring, by the processor a path of the approaching vehicle, a velocity of the vehicle, or weather information; calculating, by the processor a possible collision score; and if the possible collision score exceeds a possible collision score threshold; delivering, by a feedback device an indication; wherein the sensor is attached to a vehicle frame of a vehicle, and wherein the feedback device comprises an elongated light source adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon.

[0087] In some embodiments, the present technology includes a method of responding to a vehicle collision comprising recording, by a sensor environmental data; calculating, by a processor a collision score based on the environmental data; and if the possible collision score exceeds a collision score threshold; sending, by a feedback device a message to an emergency contact, calling an emergency contact, calling an emergency responder, saving an incident video, or sending an incident video.

[0088] The foregoing description of various embodiments of the claimed subject matter has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claimed subject matter to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to the practitioner skilled in the art. Embodiments were chosen and described in order to best describe the principles of the technology and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the relevant art to understand the claimed subject matter, the various embodiments and with various modifications that are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0089] The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments.

[0090] While the above description describes certain embodiments of the technology, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the technology can be practiced in many ways. Details of the apparatus may vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the technology disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the technology should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the technology to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the technology encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the technology under the claims.

[0091] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word "or," in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0092] The language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the technology be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based hereon. Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodiments of the technology is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the technology, which is set forth in the following claims.Enumerated Embodiments

[0093] Clause 1. An apparatus comprising: a base adapted to connect to a frame and / or a seat or a back of a vehicle operated by a user; a power supply; an elongated light source supported by the base and coupled to the power supply, wherein the elongated light source is adapted to extend above the seat, the frame, and the back of the vehicle with respect to a surface the vehicle is to traverse thereon; a sensor configured to monitor a characteristic of an environment of the vehicle and produce environmental data that includes values representative of the characteristic in temporal order; a processor configured to receive the environmental data and output a signal based on an analysis of the environmental data; and a feedback device configured to provide an indication based on the signal.

[0094] Clause 2. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the sensor comprises a camera, microphone, impact sensor, global positioning system (GPS) sensor, weather sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), proximity sensor, radar sensor, or light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor.

[0095] Clause 3. The apparatus of clause 1 or 2, wherein the feedback device comprises the elongated light source.

[0096] Clause 4. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1-3, wherein the feedback device is an audio output mechanism.

[0097] Clause 5. The apparatus of clause 4, wherein the audio output mechanism is implemented into a computing device to which the apparatus is communicatively connected.

[0098] Clause 6. The apparatus of clause 4, wherein the audio output device comprises a speaker.

[0099] Clause 7. The apparatus of clause 5, wherein the computing device is a wearable device.

[0100] Clause 8. The apparatus of clause 7, wherein the wearable device is a watch or a helmet.

[0101] Clause 9. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein: the sensor comprises a rear-facing camera and the feedback device is a display; the rear-facing camera records a live video; and the display provides the live video to the user of the vehicle.

[0102] Clause 10. The apparatus of clause 9, wherein the display is connected to a wearable device.

[0103] Clause 11. The apparatus of clause 10, wherein the wearable device is configured to attach to a wrist of the user.

[0104] Clause 12. The apparatus of clauses 10 or 11, wherein the display is configured to rotate and / or pivot.

[0105] Clause 13. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the processor is configured to generate incident data based on the environmental data, the incident data being associated with an incident.

[0106] Clause 14. The apparatus of clause 13, wherein the incident comprises, a collision, an erratic vehicle, an approaching vehicle within a predetermined distance of the vehicle, or an obstacle.

[0107] Clause 15. The apparatus of clause 14, wherein the predetermined distance is about 100 feet.

[0108] Clause 16. The apparatus of clause 14, wherein the obstacle comprises road debris, a road obstruction, a pothole, or an open car door.

[0109] Clause 17. The apparatus of clause 13, wherein the processor is configured to apply a machine learning model.

[0110] Clause 18. The apparatus of clause 17, wherein the processor generates the incident data based on the environmental data by applying the machine learning model.[OHl] Clause 19. The apparatus of clause 18, wherein the machine learning model is a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a deep Q-network (DQN), a generative adversarial network (GAN), a support vector machine (SVM), a Bayesian network, or a long short-term memory (LSTM).

[0112] Clause 20. The apparatus of clause 19, wherein the machine learning model is a classification model or an object detection model.

[0113] Clause 21. The apparatus of clause 13, wherein the feedback device provides the indication based on the incident data.

[0114] Clause 22. The apparatus of clause 21, wherein: the feedback device comprises a mobile device; and the indication comprises sending a message to an emergency contact, calling an emergency contact, calling an emergency responder, saving an incident video, sending the incidentvideo, sending a live recording, or sending a split screen of the live recording and a replay loop of the incident video.

[0115] Clause 23. The apparatus of clause 22, further comprising a communication module.

[0116] Clause 24. The apparatus of clause 23, wherein the communication module is configured to retrieve information from a remote storage device.

[0117] Clause 25. The apparatus of clause 24, wherein the information comprises emergency contact information, emergency responder information.

[0118] Clause 26. The apparatus of clause 23, wherein the communication module is configured to send information to a remote storage device.

[0119] Clause 27. The apparatus of clause 26, wherein the information comprises the incident video.

[0120] Clause 28. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the indication comprises an audio signal, a visual signal, a synchronized audio / visual signal, or alternating audio / visual signal emitted from the feedback device.

[0121] Clause 29. The apparatus of clause 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: detect an approaching vehicle based on the incident data; generate a collision score based on (i) a path and a velocity of the vehicle, (ii) a path and a velocity of the approaching vehicle, and / or (iii) a current weather state as determined from weather information; and in response to a determination that the collision score exceeds a threshold, cause the feedback device to provide an indication.

[0122] Clause 30. The apparatus of clause 29, wherein the weather information is generated by the sensor.

[0123] Clause 31. The apparatus of clause 29, wherein the weather information is retrieved from a remote storage device.

[0124] Clause 32. The apparatus of clause 31, wherein the remote storage device is a mobile phone.

[0125] Clause 33. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein: the feedback device comprises the elongated light source; and the indication comprises: increasing brightness of the elongated light source, increasing a blinking rate of the elongated light source, changing a light pattern of theelongated light source, or projecting a light from the elongated light source on the back of the user of the vehicle.

[0126] Clause 34. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein: the elongated light source has a plurality of light diodes; the power supply is a battery; and the elongated light source is configured to reduce a number of light diodes that are on or reduce a brightness of a light diode when the battery is low.

[0127] Clause 35. A method of warning an operator of a vehicle of a potential collision using the apparatus of clause 1, wherein the method comprises: recording, by the sensor, environmental data; detecting, by the processor, an approaching vehicle based on the environmental data; measuring, by the processor a path of the approaching vehicle, a velocity of the vehicle, or weather information; calculating, by the processor a possible collision score; and if the possible collision score exceeds a possible collision score threshold; and delivering, by a feedback device an indication.

[0128] Clause 36. A method of warning an operator of a vehicle of a potential collision using an apparatus that is connected to the vehicle, the method comprising: recording, by a sensor included in the apparatus, environmental data; detecting, by a processor included in the apparatus, an approaching vehicle based on the environmental data; measuring, by the processor a path of the approaching vehicle, a velocity of the vehicle, or weather information; calculating, by the processor a possible collision score; and if the possible collision score exceeds a possible collision score threshold; and delivering, by a feedback device an indication; wherein the sensor is attached to a vehicle frame of a vehicle, and wherein the feedback device comprises an elongated light source adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon.

[0129] Clause 37. A method of responding to a vehicle collision: recording, by a sensor environmental data; calculating, by a processor a possible collision score based on the environmental data; and if the possible collision score exceeds a collision score threshold; and sending, by a feedback device a message to an emergency contact, calling an emergency contact, calling an emergency responder, saving an incident video, or sending an incident video.

[0130] Clause 38. An apparatus for vehicle safety comprising: a base adapted to connect to a vehicle frame of a vehicle; a power supply; a backwards elongated light source supported by the baseand coupled to the power supply, wherein the backwards elongated light source is adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon; and a forward elongated light source that is adapted to illuminate a user of the vehicle.

[0131] Clause 39. The apparatus of clause 38, wherein the forward elongated light source is adapted to be turned on and off independent of the backwards elongated light.

[0132] Clause 40. The apparatus of clause 38, wherein the forward elongated light source is adapted to be constantly on, constantly blinking, randomly blinking, or off.

[0133] Clause 41. The apparatus of any of clauses 38-40, wherein the forward elongated light source projects an image, light, or video onto the user.

[0134] Clause 42. The apparatus of any of clauses 38-41, wherein the elongated light source projects a red light to indicate that the vehicle is breaking.

[0135] Clause 43. The apparatus of any of clauses 38-42, wherein the elongated light source projects a blinking light to indicate that the vehicle is turning.

[0136] Clause 44. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the base is releasably connected to the frame of the vehicle.

[0137] Clause 45. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the base is attached to a cycle seat, a carriage under a bicycle seat, a seat post, a wheel fender, or a support frame attached to the vehicle.

[0138] Clause 46. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the elongated light source has an attachment element configured to attach the elongated light source to a user’s clothing, belt shoulder strap, backpack, purse, or bag.

[0139] Clause 47. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the elongated light source is configured to transmit, by a processor, a low battery signal when the elongated light source has a battery power below a battery threshold.

[0140] Clause 48. The apparatus of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the elongated light source is configured to transmit, by a processor, a warning when the elongated light source is not properly secured.

[0141] Clause 49. An apparatus comprising: an article adapted to be worn by a user operating a vehicle; a power supply; a flexible display integrated into the article and coupled to the power supply; a sensor configured to monitor a characteristic of an environment of the vehicle and produce environmental data that includes values representative of the characteristic in temporal order; a processor configured to receive the environmental data and output a signal based on an analysis of the environmental data; and a feedback device configured to provide an indication based on the signal.

[0142] Clause 50. The apparatus of clause 49, wherein the article is a shirt or a backpack.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus comprising: a base adapted to connect to a frame and / or a seat or a back of a vehicle operated by a user; a power supply; an elongated light source supported by the base and coupled to the power supply, wherein the elongated light source is adapted to extend above the seat, the frame, and the back of the vehicle with respect to a surface the vehicle is to traverse thereon; a sensor configured to monitor a characteristic of an environment of the vehicle and produce environmental data that includes values representative of the characteristic in temporal order; a processor configured to receive the environmental data and output a signal based on an analysis of the environmental data; and a feedback device configured to provide an indication based on the signal.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a camera, microphone, impact sensor, global positioning system (GPS) sensor, weather sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), proximity sensor, radar, or light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the feedback device comprises the elongated light source.

4. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the feedback device is an audio output mechanism.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the audio output mechanism is implemented into a computing device to which the apparatus is communicatively connected.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-5, wherein:the sensor comprises a rear-facing camera and the feedback device is a display; the rear-facing camera records a live video; and the display provides the live video to the user of the vehicle.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 -6, wherein the processor is configured to generate incident data based on the environmental data, the incident data being associated with an incident.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the incident comprises, a collision, an erratic vehicle, an approaching vehicle within a predetermined distance of the vehicle, or an obstacle.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the processor is configured to apply a machine learning model.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the processor generates the incident data based on the environmental data by applying the machine learning model.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the feedback device provides the indication based on the incident data.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein: the feedback device comprises a mobile device; and the indication comprises sending a message to an emergency contact, calling an emergency contact, calling an emergency responder, saving an incident video, sending the incident video, sending a live recording, or sending a split screen of the live recording and a replay loop of the incident video.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the indication comprises an audio signal, a visual signal, a synchronized audio / visual signal, or alternating audio / visual signal emitted from the feedback device.

14. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the processor is further configured to: detect an approaching vehicle based on the incident data; generate a collision score based on (i) a path and a velocity of the vehicle, (ii) a path and a velocity of the approaching vehicle, and / or (iii) a current weather state as determined from weather information; and in response to a determination that the collision score exceeds a threshold, cause the feedback device to provide an indication.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the feedback device comprises the elongated light source; and the indication comprises: increasing brightness of the elongated light source, increasing a blinking rate of the elongated light source, changing a light pattern of the elongated light source, or projecting a light from the elongated light source on the back of the user of the vehicle.

16. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-15, wherein: the elongated light source has a plurality of light diodes; the power supply is a battery; and the elongated light source is configured to reduce a number of light diodes that are on or reduce a brightness of a light diode when the battery is low.

17. An apparatus for vehicle safety comprising: a base adapted to connect to a vehicle frame of a vehicle; a power supply; a backwards elongated light source supported by the base and coupled to the power supply, wherein the backwards elongated light source is adapted to extendabove the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon; and a forward elongated light source that is adapted to illuminate a user of the vehicle.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the base is releasably connected to the frame of the vehicle.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the base is attached to a cycle seat, a carriage under a bicycle seat, a seat post, a wheel fender, or a support frame attached to the vehicle.

20. A method of warning an operator of a vehicle of a potential collision using the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the method comprises: recording, by the sensor, environmental data; detecting, by the processor, an approaching vehicle based on the environmental data; measuring, by the processor a path of the approaching vehicle, a velocity of the vehicle, or weather information; calculating, by the processor a possible collision score; and if the possible collision score exceeds a possible collision score threshold; and delivering, by a feedback device an indication.

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